When to see a doctor

A runny nose may be annoying and uncomfortable, but it usually clears up on its own. A runny nose or stuffy nose is usually just an annoyance. But it can be a sign of a more serious problem, and it may be serious in infants.

Call your doctor if:

Your symptoms last more than 10 days.

You have a high fever, particularly if it lasts more than three days.

Your nasal discharge is green and is accompanied by sinus pain or fever. This may be a sign of a bacterial infection.

You have asthma or emphysema, or you're taking immune-suppressing medications.

You have blood in your nasal discharge or a persistent clear discharge after a head injury.

Self-care
Until you see your doctor, try these simple steps to relieve symptoms:

Sniffing and swallowing or gently blowing your nose.

If the runny nose is a persistent, watery discharge, particularly if accompanied by sneezing and itchy or watery eyes, your symptoms may be allergy-related and an over-the-counter antihistamine may help. Be sure to follow the label instructions exactly.

For babies and small children, use a soft rubber suction bulb to gently remove any secretions.

Try these measures to relieve postnasal drip — when excess mucus accumulates in the back of your throat:

Avoid common irritants such as cigarette smoke and sudden temperature changes.

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